Standing beneath Infra-Red, you face a route that combines technical crack climbing with bold face moves, all set against the raw granite cliffs of Truckee River Canyon. The climb kicks off inside a sharp dihedral, where a narrow crack tests your finger strength and footwork. From there, the route shifts left around a prominent arete, opening up into a sequence of sustained face climbing. Bolts are spaced to challenge your commitment, and generous jugs provide welcome rest spots amidst the exposure. This single-pitch route stretches about 65 feet, a perfect length to push your movement and efficiency without overstaying its welcome.

The granite here feels alive—cold and textured, demanding precise placements and body positioning. As you move from the constricted crack into the open face, your senses heighten: the rough stone under fingertips, the distant murmur of the Truckee River daring you onward, and the pine-scented breeze filtering through. Bolts are your safety net, six in total, leading to a secure anchor that feels reliably solid.

Accessing Infra-Red is straightforward, with a short approach hike across firm terrain from the parking near Light Deprivation Buttress. The trail winds through sparse forest, balancing dappled sunlight with shaded patches that keep the rock cool during late spring and early fall. Expect about 10-15 minutes of easy terrain before stepping onto the base.

Ideal conditions for climbing here lean toward cooler parts of the day—morning or late afternoon—when the wall gains less direct sun and friction stays optimal. Due to the route’s exposure and rock quality, climbers should trust their ability to manage pump and focus on precise footwork, especially transitioning around the arete where holds thin. The 5.9 rating feels true to the technical demands, with a crux that requires solid crack technique and face climbing confidence.

Safety is key on this exposed granite face. Although the bolts are well-placed, the rock can surprise with occasional loose flakes near the base. Wearing a helmet and carefully testing holds before committing is a practical must. Additionally, be mindful of the seasonal weather in the Truckee area—afternoon thunderstorms can roll in fast, and the descent trail becomes slippery when wet.

For those preparing to send Infra-Red, pack climbing shoes with sticky soles and a rack focused on quickdraws, as no traditional gear placements are needed here. Hydrate well before the climb: the semi-arid canyon offers little shade between climbs, so water and sunscreen will keep your edge sharp. The anchor awaits a solid rap or a careful downclimb, making this an accessible yet challenging gem for sport climbers visiting the Lake Tahoe region.

Infra-Red isn’t just a route; it’s a brief but demanding dialogue with granite’s sharp angles and smooth faces, inviting climbers to blend technique with steady resolve.